Lawmakers question cost of Vernon legal bills

VERNON, Calif. 
Critics say the city of Vernon is paying too much for legal help.

The Los Angeles Times (
http://lat.ms/rrTGKt
) reported Wednesday that Vernon paid Latham & Watkins LLP nearly $7 million in 2011, while over $2 million went to other lawyers and lobbyists to defend the city.

A lot of legal energy went toward fighting disincorporation in the corruption-plagued Los Angeles suburb with a population of 110.

Former state attorney general and Vernon ethics adviser John Van de Kamp says the legal fees are too high.

Latham & Watkins did not respond to Times requests for comment. The city administrator issued a statement saying the disincorporation fight required talent, skill and experience.

Three ex-city officials have been convicted for misusing public funds and the city's financial dealings are under federal investigation.